Snl24 | Defender hits back at Chiefs critics

Thatayaone Ditlhokwe, Zitha Macheke and Spiwe Given Msimango of Kaizer Chiefs during the DStv Premiership match between Kaizer Chiefs and AmaZulu FC at FNB Stadium on August 26, 2023 in Johannesburg, South Africa.

(Photo by Lefty Shivambu/Gallo Images)

Defender Thatayaone Ditlhokwe has hit back at critics over Kaizer Chiefs’ erratic form this season and warned against counting Amakhosi out.

Chiefs endured a record-worst start to a PSL season collecting just four wins from 13 matches under then-head coach Molefi Ntseki, leading to two fines imposed on the club by the PSL DC over fan violence.

The club’s hierarchy acted swiftly in addressing the worsening situation, placing experienced coach Cavin Johnson at the helm on an interim basis while in search of a permanent coach.

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After seven matches, Johnson has somewhat steadied the ship, with Chiefs winning four of those encounters, including a three-game winning run, a first for the season for the Soweto giants.

Speaking to media at the Nedbank Last 32 media launch, Ditlhokwe said the squad is patient with their progress and warned against underestimating Amakhosi.

“We’ve been talking about consistency and talking about the good performance displayed towards the end of [the first round] of the league,” the centre-back said to the journalists.

“When the league started, I had an interview and said to you guys (media) that this is a process. We are patient about it, and we know it’s not yet over.

“It’s all about us now as players to keep the focus until the end of the league. It’s up to us as players to continue with that momentum. But I can assure you not to count us out.”

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Ditlhokwe remains on the sidelines after suffering a shoulder injury while on national duty with Botswana towards the end of November 2023.

“[The recovery] is going well and I think I’ll be back in action sooner rather than later,” the 26-year-old added. 

Meanwhile, Chiefs were drawn against lower division outfit Milford FC in the last 32 of the Nedbank Cup. Before that, Amakhosi will return to competitive action on February 13 when they take on TS Galaxy at FNB Stadium. 

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